sanctifying grace

USAGE SUMMARY

"sanctifying grace" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it any time to refer to the grace that sanctifies us and helps us to lead the Christian life. For example: "We are all recipients of God's sanctifying grace, and He helps us to become the people we were created to be."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

He understands that there are heroic possibilities to sanctifying grace.

The New Yorker

While a venial sin weakens the sinner's union with God, it is not a deliberate turning from him and so does not wholly block the inflow of sanctifying grace.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And through all her distress, sorrow, and suffering, the Blessed Mother's example is the epitome of sanctifying grace those mothers can rely upon for her children and her own survival.

HuffPost

The Immaculate Conception of Mary is a belief of the Roman Catholic Church, expressing the conviction that the Virgin Mary was free from original sin and filled with sanctifying grace from the moment of her conception in her mother's womb.

Huffington Post

While it is true that the Catechism of the Catholic Church (promulgated in 1992 by Pope John Paul II) does speak of salvation outside the church, the official Church teaching continues to insist that there is only one true church and anyone who does not believe what it teaches and is not in a state of "sanctifying grace" and dies, is in fact, in danger of going to hell.

Huffington Post

Sir, he says, what's Sanctifying Grace?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The fifth mode offered by Eriugena is essentially theological and applies solely to humans: those sanctified by grace are said to be, whereas sinners who have renounced the divine image are said not to be.

SEP

Those closest to me have said they recognize a deep change, which has been encouraging because I hope to continually be sanctified by God's grace.

Huffington Post

Jesus, Mr. Steinberg writes, is sanctifying perspective itself.

The New York Times - Books

Father Nikodim sanctifying the chapel at the recovery house.

The New York Times

"On the one hand, there's a desire that the awards are a pure, sanctified process, all about artistic grace.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sanctifying grace" in contexts discussing sacraments, spiritual growth, and the process of becoming more like Christ.

Common error

Avoid using "sanctifying grace" as a generic term for blessings or good fortune. It has a specific theological meaning related to spiritual purification and holiness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sanctifying grace" functions primarily as a theological term within Christian theology, particularly Catholicism. It denotes the grace of God that makes human beings holy and pleasing to Him. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in discussions of sacraments, sin, and salvation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sanctifying grace" is a noun phrase deeply rooted in Christian theology, specifically within Catholicism, denoting the divine grace that makes humans holy. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and use in theological and literary contexts. While predominantly formal, its use spans across news, encyclopedias, and scientific discussions. For alternative expressions, consider "divine grace" or "transforming grace", depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey. Remember, it's more than a generic blessing; it's a specific term for spiritual purification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grace that sanctifies

Rephrases the concept to emphasize the action of sanctification.

divine grace

Focuses specifically on the divine origin of grace.

saving grace

Emphasizes the redemptive aspect of grace.

transforming grace

Highlights the effect of grace on the individual.

hallowing grace

Underscores the sanctifying or making holy quality of grace.

state of grace

Refers to the condition of being in God's favor.

sanctifying influence

Shifts focus to the impact or effect of sanctification.

divine favor

A more general term for God's approval and blessing.

spiritual purification

Focuses on the cleansing aspect of spiritual growth.

redemptive blessing

Highlights both the saving and beneficial nature of grace.

FAQs

How is "sanctifying grace" typically used in a sentence?

You'll often see "sanctifying grace" in discussions about Catholic theology, sacraments, and spiritual growth. For example, "Through baptism, we receive the gift of sanctifying grace."

What's the difference between "sanctifying grace" and "actual grace"?

"Sanctifying grace" is a habitual gift that remains in the soul, while "actual grace" is a temporary intervention by God to prompt specific actions or thoughts.

Can I use "sanctifying grace" in a non-religious context?

While technically possible, "sanctifying grace" carries strong religious connotations. Using it outside of a spiritual or theological discussion might confuse your audience.

What are some synonyms for "sanctifying grace" that convey a similar meaning?

Consider using phrases like "divine grace", "transforming grace", or "hallowing grace" depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize. Each of these /s/alternatives carries a nuance that may be more suitable in certain contexts.